Why was Ruturaj Gaikwad dropped from the ODI squad?
Squad Announcement Sparks Debate Ahead of New Zealand Series
India’s squad selection for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand has triggered strong reactions within the cricketing community. While the announcement confirmed Shubman Gill as captain and retained senior batters like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shreyas Iyer, the exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad has become a major talking point. So Let’s take a look at Why was Ruturaj Gaikwad dropped from the ODI squad.
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Despite scoring his maiden ODI century against South Africa, Gaikwad failed to find a place in the final 15-member squad, a decision that has drawn scrutiny from former players and analysts.
Ashwin’s Take on the Gaikwad vs Pant Selection Call
Former India spinner and Chennai Super Kings legend Ravichandran Ashwin openly questioned the selectors’ choice, suggesting that Gaikwad could have been preferred over Rishabh Pant. According to Ashwin, the contest for the final batting slot boiled down to these two players.
Ashwin highlighted Gaikwad’s strengths against spin and his ability to rotate strike in the middle overs—skills that are increasingly vital in modern ODI cricket. He also expressed the view that Pant is more effective as a top-order batter in white-ball formats rather than in the middle order, where stability and game management are crucial.
Numbers That Strengthen Gaikwad’s Case
Gaikwad’s omission appears surprising when viewed through the lens of performance. The Maharashtra batter boasts an exceptional List-A record, averaging close to 58 with a strike rate above 100. His consistency across domestic and international opportunities, combined with his recent hundred against South Africa, suggested he was building momentum at the right time.
In contrast, Pant’s white-ball returns have yet to mirror his red-ball success, although his left-handed option and wicketkeeping ability played a key role in the selectors’ final call.
Shreyas Iyer’s Return: A Straightforward Decision
While questioning Gaikwad’s absence, Ashwin supported the inclusion of Shreyas Iyer, calling it a “clear and straightforward decision.” After recovering from injury, Iyer’s return was seen as justified, given his established role in India’s ODI middle order and leadership responsibilities as vice-captain.
What Lies Ahead for Gaikwad?
With competition intensifying and limited spots available, Gaikwad’s challenge now is to remain consistent and force the selectors to reconsider. As India prepare to face New Zealand starting January 11 in Vadodara, the debate around his exclusion underlines the fine margins that define modern selection calls.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Ruturaj Gaikwad dropped from the ODI squad?
The selectors opted for Rishabh Pant, valuing his left-handed option and wicketkeeping role.
Q2: What was Ashwin’s main argument?
Ashwin felt Gaikwad’s middle-order skills against spin made him a strong candidate.
Q3: Did Gaikwad perform well recently?
Yes, he scored his maiden ODI century against South Africa.
Q4: Is Shreyas Iyer’s selection controversial?
No, his return after injury was widely seen as justified.
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